Peanut chaat is a popular Indian street food that combines boiled or roasted peanuts with fresh vegetables and spices, creating a tangy, crunchy, and nutritious snack. Originating from India, this dish is especially popular as an evening snack or appetizer and is loved for its mix of flavors and textures. The recipe is simple, requiring minimal ingredients and preparation time, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced cooks.
Key Ingredients for Peanut Chaat Recipe
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients to make about 4 servings:
- 1 cup raw peanuts (or roasted peanuts, for a quicker option)
- 1 small tomato (finely chopped)
- ½ medium cucumber (peeled and chopped)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 green chili (finely chopped, adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp fresh coriander leaves (chopped)
- 1 tsp chaat masala (for tangy flavor)
- ½ tsp roasted cumin powder (adds warmth)
- ¼ tsp red chili powder (optional, for heat)
- 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- Salt to taste
- Optional garnishes: 2 tbsp sev (crunchy chickpea noodles), pomegranate seeds, or a dash of black salt for extra flavor
Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes (if boiling peanuts)
- Total Time: 25 minutes
How to Make Peanut Chaat (Step-by-Step Instructions)
Boil the Peanuts: If using raw peanuts, add them to a pot with enough water to cover them. Add a pinch of salt and cook for about 15 minutes on medium heat until tender. Drain and let them cool. (You can also use an Instant Pot or pressure cooker to speed up the process.)
Prepare the Vegetables: While the peanuts cool, finely chop the tomato, cucumber, onion, green chili, and fresh coriander leaves.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the boiled peanuts. Then add the chopped tomato, cucumber, onion, and green chili. Stir everything well.
Add the Spices: Sprinkle chaat masala, roasted cumin powder, red chili powder, and a pinch of salt over the mixture. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the ingredients.
Combine and Toss: Gently mix all ingredients until the spices and lime juice are evenly distributed. Taste and adjust salt or lime juice if needed.
Garnish and Serve: For extra crunch, sprinkle sev and pomegranate seeds on top. You can also add a pinch of black salt if desired. Serve the chaat immediately for the freshest taste and texture.
Taste and Texture
Peanut chaat is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The peanuts bring a soft, slightly nutty flavor that complements the juicy crunch of fresh vegetables like cucumber and onion. The spices add warmth and tang, with chaat masala delivering a savory zing, and lime juice adding brightness. Optional toppings like sev and pomegranate seeds add both texture and bursts of sweetness that elevate the overall taste.
Health Benefits
Peanut chaat is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits:
- High in Protein: Peanuts are rich in protein, making this a filling snack.
- Good Fats: Peanuts contain heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Fiber and Vitamins: The vegetables add fiber, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients.
- Low in Calories: With a balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, peanut chaat is satisfying without being calorie-dense, making it a good choice for weight-conscious individuals.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: Approximately 200-250 kcal
- Protein: 7 grams
- Carbohydrates: 12 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
- Fat: 15 grams
(Please note: Nutrition may vary based on specific ingredients and quantities.)
Expert Tips for Perfecting the Recipe
- Boiling Tips: If boiling raw peanuts, ensure they’re tender but not mushy.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice, tomatoes, and herbs are essential for the best taste.
- Adjust Spice to Taste: If you prefer less spice, use milder chili powder or omit green chili.
- Serve Fresh: This chaat is best served immediately, as the vegetables can release water if left too long, making it less crunchy.
Variations
Roasted Peanut Chaat: Skip boiling and use roasted peanuts for a crunchier texture. Add a few drops of oil to roast raw peanuts in a skillet if desired.
Green Chutney Twist: Mix in a tablespoon of green chutney for extra tang and spiciness.
Fruit Twist: Add pomegranate seeds, raw mango slices, or diced apple for a sweet and sour flavor.
Keto Peanut Salad: Replace high-carb veggies with low-carb options like bell peppers and avoid sev.
Final Thoughts
Peanut chaat is a simple yet flavorful dish that fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle. Its versatility makes it easy to customize, and its unique mix of flavors and textures will delight your taste buds. This snack is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a quick, nutritious, and delicious Indian-inspired treat. Try it once, and you’ll be coming back for more!
Can roasted peanuts be used instead of boiled peanuts?
Yes, roasted peanuts are an excellent option and add a crunchy texture to the chaat. If roasted peanuts are used, the boiling step can be skipped, and the recipe can proceed with the remaining ingredients.
How long will peanut chaat stay fresh?
Peanut chaat is best consumed fresh to maintain its crunchiness and flavors. If necessary, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day, though the vegetables may release moisture, softening the texture.
Is peanut chaat suitable for weight loss?
Yes, peanut chaat can be a nutritious choice for weight management. High in protein and fiber, it helps promote fullness. However, portion sizes should be managed, and toppings like sev should be limited to keep calories in check.
What can be substituted for chaat masala?
If chaat masala is unavailable, a similar flavor can be achieved using a combination of cumin powder, a pinch of black salt, and a small amount of amchur (dried mango powder) for tanginess.